Best Universities in Australia for International Students are highly ranked globally and offer outstanding education, research opportunities, and cultural diversity. With 43 universities across the country, international students have a wide range of choices based on location, courses, and lifestyle.
Australia’s top universities are spread across all states, making it easier for students to select a region that suits their academic and personal preferences.
QS World Rankings 2025 – Best universities in Australia for international students
Here’s a quick overview of the best universities in Australia for international students based on QS World Rankings 2025:
| University | QS Ranking 2025 |
| University of Melbourne | 13 |
| University of Sydney | 18 |
| University of New South Wales (UNSW) | 19 |
| Monash University | 37 |
| Australian National University (ANU) | 30 |
| University of Queensland | 40 |
| University of Western Australia | 77 |
| University of Adelaide | 82 |
| University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 88 |
| University of Canberra | 403 |
Universities in Australia Accepting IELTS 5.5 or Below
Some Australian universities accept international students with lower IELTS scores (as low as 5.5), or waive the requirement in certain cases.
Examples include:
- Macquarie University
- University of Southern Queensland
- Bond University
- University of Queensland
- Swinburne University of Technology
- University of South Australia
- UNSW
Note: Always check with the university directly before applying.
Top Undergraduate Courses in Australia
A bachelor’s degree in Australia typically takes 3–4 years. Courses are available in fields like Business, Arts, Science, Law, and Education.
Popular Undergraduate Universities & Courses:
| University | UG Programs |
| Monash University | B.Com, B.Sc, B.A |
| Curtin University | B.Sc, B.A, LL.B |
| University of Tasmania | BBA, B.Sc, B.A |
| Federation University | B.Sc, B.Ed |
| Macquarie University | B.Sc, B.Ed |
| Southern Cross University | B.Sc |
| University of New England | B.A, B.Sc, LL.B |
Eligibility:
- Minimum 65% in Class 12
- For less than 60%, diploma/foundation pathway may be required
Top MS Universities in Australia
MS (Master’s) programs in Australia range from 1–2 years and cover a wide array of specializations including Engineering, IT, Data Science, and Business.
Top Universities for MS:
- University of Melbourne
- ANU
- University of Sydney
- Monash University
- Curtin University
- University of Wollongong
- Macquarie University
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with strong academic background
- IELTS score of 6.5+
- Some programs may require a GMAT score of 600+
Universities Accepting IELTS 6.0 for Master’s
These universities accept students with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0:
- Australian National University (ANU)
- James Cook University (JCU)
- University of Tasmania (UTAS)
- University of New England (UNE)
- Victoria University
- La Trobe University
- University of South Australia (UniSA)
- Flinders University
- Swinburne University of Technology
- University of Canberra
MBA in Australia
Australia hosts some of the world’s top MBA programs. MBA graduates benefit from global recognition, internship opportunities, and post-study work visas.
Top MBA Universities in Australia:
- University of Melbourne
- Monash University
- UNSW
- UTS
- Macquarie University
- ANU
- RMIT
- University of Western Australia
- University of South Australia
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with minimum 60%
- 2–3 years of work experience
- GMAT required for top programs
Top PhD (Doctorate) Universities in Australia
PhD programs in Australia last 3–5 years and offer cutting-edge research facilities.
Top PhD Universities:
- University of Melbourne
- ANU
- University of Queensland
- Monash University
- UNSW
- University of Adelaide
- UTS
- University of Western Australia
- University of Canberra
PhD Requirements:
- Completed Master’s degree
- Strong academic record
- IELTS 6.5 or higher
Scholarships for International Students
Scholarships can greatly reduce tuition fees and living costs for international students.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Award |
| Australia Awards | Based on country & merit | Full tuition |
| Destination Australia | Domestic & International | AUD $15,000 |
| RTP (Govt) | Master’s & PhD students | Varies |
| Curtin Uni Scholarships | International PG students | Up to AUD $10,000 |
| ACU Merit Scholarship | High-performing international students | Tuition fee discount |
Universities in Australia with No Application Fee
Save on application costs by applying to these universities:
- University of South Australia (UniSA)
- Bond University
- Victoria University
- Charles Darwin University
- University of Wollongong
- RMIT
- CQUniversity
- University of Notre Dame Australia
Start Your Journey with Student Universe
If you’re planning to study in Australia, Student Universe can help you apply, get scholarships, and understand the visa process. We partner with Australia’s top universities to make your study-abroad dream a reality.
FAQ
Q1. Which are the best universities in Australia for international students?
A: The University of Melbourne, UNSW, ANU, Monash University, and University of Sydney are some of the best.
Q2. Can I study in Australia with IELTS 5.5?
A: Yes, several universities accept 5.5 or offer conditional admission through foundation programs.
Q3. Which universities offer scholarships to international students?
A: Scholarships are available from institutions like Curtin University, ACU, and the Australian government.
Q4. Do Australian universities charge an application fee?
A: Many do, but some like UniSA, Bond University, and CDU waive the fee.